Press Releases

IJO Members Help Houston Recover

Published

6 years ago

April 3, 2018

INSTORE Staff

(PRESS RELEASE) SOUTHPORT, CT – The Independent Jewelers Organization (IJO) held its most recent conference and buying show at the new Marriott Marquis Hotel and Convention Center in Houston, TX. IJO has made a practice of “leaving its mark” on host communities, having donated in excess of $350,000 to charities such as Make-A-Wish, First Candle, Paws for Patriots, Cure Autism Now and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, to name a few.

The Houston Food Bank is the largest source of food for hunger relief charities in 18 southeast Texas counties. Each year, the Food Bank feeds 800,000 individuals through a network of 600 food pantries, soup kitchens, senior centers and other charities.

According to IJO President and CEO Jeff Roberts, “The Houston area was devastated by Hurricane Harvey, and the Houston Food Bank was strained beyond its limits. We felt the devastation was not limited just to the city of Houston itself but all the outlying areas as well, and by choosing this particular charity it would have a more far-reaching effect.”

IJO headquarters matched the amount donated by IJO members.

“While it has been seven months since Hurricane Harvey impacted Houston, for tens to hundreds of thousands of Texans the long-term effects are still being felt and the need for assistance continues. With the help and support of residents, businesses and organizations, such as Independent Jewelers Organization, we are able to help provide much-needed food and water,” says Brian Greene, president and CEO of Houston Food Bank. “IJO’s generous donation of $18,000 will provide 54,000 meals to those in need.”

For further information on the Houston Food Bank, go to www.houstonfoodbank.org. To inquire about membership in IJO go to www.ijo.com or call Penny Palmer at 800-624-9252.

This Third-Generation Jeweler Was Ready for Retirement. He Called Wilkerson

Retirement is never easy, especially when it means the end to a business that was founded in 1884. But for Laura and Sam Sipe, it was time to put their own needs first. They decided to close J.C. Sipe Jewelers, one of Indianapolis’ most trusted names in fine jewelry, and call Wilkerson. “Laura and I decided the conditions were right,” says Sam. Wilkerson handled every detail in their going-out-of-business sale, from marketing to manning the sales floor. “The main goal was to sell our existing inventory that’s all paid for and turn that into cash for our retirement,” says Sam. “It’s been very, very productive.” Would they recommend Wilkerson to other jewelers who want to enjoy their golden years? Absolutely! “Call Wilkerson,” says Laura. “They can help you achieve your goals so you’ll be able to move into retirement comfortably.”